Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi

If you’re craving a comfort meal that’s bursting with flavor but comes together in under 30 minutes, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi. Tender shrimp, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, spicy cream sauce come together to create a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending all day in the kitchen, this recipe is a delightful twist on classic Cajun flavors, balancing heat and creaminess in every bite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi stands out because it combines the rich, silky texture of gnocchi with the bold, smoky spices of Cajun seasoning, all enveloped in a decadent cream sauce. The shrimp are seared to perfection, adding a juicy, succulent contrast to the soft gnocchi. Unlike traditional pasta, gnocchi offers a unique, pillowy mouthfeel that soaks up the sauce beautifully. The addition of fresh bell pepper and onion gives the dish a subtle sweetness and crunch, balancing the spice perfectly. Plus, the Parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth that rounds out every flavor. This recipe is quick, fuss-free, and packs a punch of flavor, making it a go-to for busy cooks who want something special.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 package potato gnocchi (about 16 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green works well)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet – for sautéing the shrimp and vegetables
• Medium saucepan – to cook the gnocchi
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring and scraping the pan
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping vegetables and shrimp
• Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients precisely

Build Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside. This step ensures your gnocchi is perfectly tender and ready to soak up the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds the aromatic base of the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Gnocchi, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy Cajun sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

• Use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option with a similar soft texture.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, creamy alternative.
• Replace shrimp with grilled chicken strips for a different protein that pairs well with Cajun seasoning.
• For a vegetarian twist, use smoked tofu or sautéed mushrooms instead of shrimp.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp; it prevents proper searing and can make them rubbery.
• Don’t skip seasoning the shrimp before cooking; it’s key to building bold flavor.
• Don’t rush the cream sauce—let it simmer gently to thicken and fully develop flavor.
• Don’t use instant gnocchi without cooking; it needs to be boiled first to achieve the right tenderness.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, keep the shrimp separate or freeze the sauce and gnocchi without shrimp to avoid texture changes. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s texture and shrimp’s sear.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can reduce the amount or choose a milder blend if you prefer less spice. Adding a splash of cream helps mellow the heat as well.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be as thick. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works beautifully and adds a subtle richness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and sauce up to two days in advance, then quickly cook the gnocchi and combine everything when ready to serve. This keeps the gnocchi from becoming mushy.

Serve with These

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Skillet – a light and fresh side to complement the creamy gnocchi.
• Cajun Chicken Pasta In Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce – for those who want to explore more Cajun-inspired creamy dishes.
• Creamy Parsnip Potato Soup – a cozy starter that pairs well with the richness of the shrimp gnocchi.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Gnocchi recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels truly special. The balance of spice, creaminess, and fresh herbs makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a small gathering, this recipe delivers elegance without fuss. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste and experiment with different protein or vegetable additions. It’s versatile, satisfying, and bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the bold flavors and comforting textures that make this dish a standout!

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